ELK GROVE VILLAGE, ILL. — Middleby Food Processing has announced a series of appointments across its Cozzini and Proxaut brands.
Zach Bearson has been named vice president of sales and marketing for Cozzini. He replaces Jim Gaydusek, who is retiring.
“Zach is a strong addition to our team and will implement global marketing initiatives to expand our reach and drive growth,” said PJ Samson, Cozzini group president, Danfotech, Filtration Automation, MP Equipment and Middleby Mexico.
Bearson brings extensive experience in the business development industry to his new position. As Cozzini’s vice president of sales and marketing, he will ensure the product portfolio and services continue to meet and exceed customer expectations while capitalizing on emerging opportunities.
Bearson earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin and a marketing and management MBA from Southern Methodist University.
Gaydusek joined the company in 1996 as Northeast regional sales manager. He was later promoted to sales director and then vice president. In each role, Gaydusek was directly responsible for territorial expansion and international sales growth.
“Jim has had many significant accomplishments during his 27-year career at Cozzini including the advancement of pet food processing lines,” said Samson. “We are very grateful for Jim’s dedication and are pleased he will continue part time.”
Proxaut announced two senior management appointments. Michele Riva was named sales and marketing director, and Gabriele Macchi was named operations director.
With more than 15 years of experience in protein processing technologies and marketing strategies in Italy and the United States, Riva will lead sales and service initiatives at Proxaut, delivering the breadth of its innovations. He has been at Middleby for over a year.
Macchi has been with Proxaut for several years as technical director, where he pushed the team to provide labor-saving efficiencies. His vision is to continue to direct the brand towards operational excellence in the evolving technological space.
Read more about personnel changes throughout the industry.
